WASHINGTON, DC – Canadian Ambassador to the U.S. Gary Doer and Canadian Consul-General John Prato hosted a Celebration of Canadian Whiskies with the Distilled Spirits Council and Spirits Canada at the Canadian Consulate in New York on Nov. 19. The VIP tasting event featured more than 15 high-end whiskies, a selection of signature cocktails created by famed New York mixologist Jim Meehan, and Canadian-inspired fare from Mile End Sandwich. More than 100 guests were in attendance.

In addition to a sampling of spirits and fine foods, the New York Academy of Art created a fitting artistic featuring an art exhibition from 8 contemporary Canadian artists.

“Canadian whisky is the largest imported whiskey category in the U.S,” said Distilled Spirits Council Senior Vice President Frank Coleman. “It represents an estimated 16 million cases annually worth upwards of $4.8 billion at retail. The best part of the story is that in recent years, American consumers are enjoying a whole new range of super premium Canadian whiskies.”

“Canada has been proud to be a significant supplier of Canadian whisky to US consumers for many, many decades,” said Jan Westcott, Spirits Canada. “We are honored that our Canadian whisky brands continue to command strong patronage among discerning Americans.”

This event followed a successful reception hosted by Ambassador Doer, the Distilled Spirits Council and Sprits Canada for members of Congress and staff at the Canadian Embassy in Washington last July.